WASHINGTON — The death of an 18-year-old rapper from Suitland, Maryland, continues to shock members of his community, especially those closest to him, as they held a vigil in his honor Saturday afternoon. Douglas Brooks, known as rapper “Swipey,” was shot and killed near his home in the early hours of Aug. 21.
“It just don’t seem real,” Brooks’ brother, Romilli Harris, said. “I be out there looking for him. It’s like I’m going crazy or something.”
As an up-and-coming rapper, Brooks had performed with Wale, one of the most well-known D.C. rappers. Brooks’ godfather, Paul Frazier, says his godson’s death is a major loss for the D.C. area, especially for the local music scene.
“Swipey’s one of the best in putting words together, an intelligent young man, and just really understanding music, and kids from down to [age] 8 to older guys at [age] 28 can listen to him and vibe to him,” he said.
Frazier thinks the young rapper may have been targeted because of his success, and said that “the youth can’t see one another progress.”
Prince George’s County police are investigating the shooting, but have not identified a suspect.
